Lindenwold man charged with insurance fraud

TRENTON, N.J. -- A Lindenwold man has been indicted on third- and fourth-degree charges of violations ranging from insurance fraud to falsifying records.

Vito Manzella, 23, was indicted on Wednesday of attempting to steal over $68,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits from the New Jersey Indemnity Insurance Company. He falsified an affidavit after a May 2005 accident in which he claimed he lived in a Mullica Hill residence with a family member who had automobile insurance.

Living with a family member who had insurance would have allowed Manzella to be covered by PIP coverage, which would cover medical bills, lost wages and essential services, because PIP covers those living in a house where other residents are licensed drivers with the appropriate insurance.

He allegedly did not live in Mullica Hill, but in Camden County, with a family member who did not have insurance.

Manzella is charged with insurance fraud and attempted theft, both third-degree, along with fourth-degree charges of both false swearing and falsifying records.